Alaska is the largest wilderness area of the United States, offering a huge amount of charm and a fascinating history among its glacier-carved landscapes. Spot incredible wildlife such as the brown bear, breaching whales, sea otters, soaring eagles and vultures as you explore with bike rides, boat trips and kayaks, pausing at former frontier towns that offer fascinating stories.

Carrying 930 guests apiece, with Viking Ocean Cruises you can expect a fresh and minimalist Scandinavian style on board - but really, it's all about the destination, and it's just as well when you're somewhere like Alaska, with an emphasis on exploration and enrichment. Selected shore excursions are included in your fare, as well as inclusive value on board to give a relaxed environment alongside a range of lectures and cultural programmes. A varied offering ashore gives an insight into how people live and work in each country visited, as well as some privileged access to cultural treasures. Back on board, expect to socialise with like-minded travellers in an easy, spacious and understated hotel-style environment.

Viking's 10-night sailings are the perfect introduction to Alaska, departing three times a month between April and September and include stops at Ketchikan, a great introduction to Alaska's natural attractions alongside those emblematic colourful wooden buildings; Icy Strait Point, where you can learn about Alaska's native culture and enjoy whale watching; and Alaska's remote state capital Juneau, accessible only by plane or by boat thanks to its dramatic hillside location. Longer 22-night itineraries offer sailings from Tokyo to Vancouver and vice versa on the North Pacific Passage, or even 36-night voyages that combine in-depth Japan and Alaska exploration.